IOC to lift ban on IOA, says sports minister

Sports minister Jitender Singh addressing a press conference on Thursday said the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has decided to pave the way to lift ban on the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and Indian sportspersons will soon able to join the Olympics.

Jitender Singh said all formalities are expected to be wrapped up withing 30 to 60 days after his meetings with officials of the International Olympic Committee on Wednesday.

The sports minister said that the govt will ensure free and fair elections to the IOA and it has no intention to to interfere in the internal matter of the National Sports Federation.

"Transparency and accountability is very important," said the minister.

The discussion with the IOC on Wednesday, in Laussane, also included age and tenure guidelines of sportspersons. The sports minister had also discussed ban on wrestling with the IOC president.

Jitendra Singh had met with IOC officials with an Indian delegation that included shooter Abhinav Bindra.